Though the study focused its criticism mainly on microtransactions, the researchers pointed out that loot boxes posed a significant financial risk for players who are vulnerable to the addictive properties of the product. They just keep on buying and opening loot boxes in the hopes of getting a high-value product worth their purchase.

In a statement, Dr. Daniel King, Senior Research Associate in the University of Adelaide's School of Psychology, said

"These schemes may entice some players to spend more money than they may have intended or can afford, especially when using credit cards or virtual currency that makes it hard to keep track of spending"

Loot boxes are random in nature. This means that buyers don't know what they will get when they open the box. It could be something common or extremely rare. The problem is that some products are unique to loot boxes and obsessive players keep on buying loot boxes until they get what they want. The result is something similar to the scratch cards that people buy at lottery shops, where they keep on buying them in the hopes of eventually winningClick to expand...

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The sale of loot boxes is also combined with what researchers call 'predatory monetization'. Depending on a player's spending habits, in-game items may suddenly find their prices changing to further encourage the purchase of loot boxes. Pressure tactics like limited-time sales have also been used to convince players to buy even more loot boxes.

The trouble is that all of these contribute to a loop of purchases that entrap the buyer. They keep buying since they feel that they have already spent a lot of money on their goal, they just have to move forward even with the additional financial costs.

According to Professor Paul Delfabbr, the loot box market is operating without restrictions and regulations. With many young players participating in these loot box games, they are especially vulnerable to such schemes as they don't have the self-control required to say no to such predatory practices. This study may tip Australian lawmakers to follow in the footsteps of the Netherlands which banned loot boxes.Click to expand...

Predatory monetization schemes (e.g., 'loot boxes') in video games are purchasing systems that disguise or withhold the long-term cost of the activity until players are already financially and psychologically committed. Such schemes contribute to the increasing similarity of gaming and gambling and the potential for financial harm for those with Internet gaming disorder.Click to expand...

I don't think this kind of thing is surprising at all, and I expect to see more research come to the same conclusion as time goes on

I know the "think of the children" defense gets mocked a lot by people who are fond of lootboxes, but by design there are aspects of lootboxes that should be looked at